Gastric ulcers in horses, also known as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS), are a common condition. They are injuries or lesions in the stomach lining caused by excessive stomach acid. Studies have shown that the incidence of gastric ulcers can vary greatly depending on the type of horse and its activity. In particular, horses that are exposed to intensive training and competition conditions and thus a high level of stress are affected by gastric ulcers. Racehorses, for example, have a particularly high incidence of gastric ulcers; between 53% and 93% of horses are affected.
Symptoms
Gastric ulcers in horses can cause a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Here are the most common symptoms that occur in horses with gastric ulcers:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Colic symptoms
- Changes in behaviour
- Poor coat quality
- Pain when riding
- Frequent yawning
- Abnormal faecal behaviour
Causes
Gastric ulcers in horses are caused by a combination of different factors that damage the stomach lining and affect stomach acid production. The most common causes are:
Feeding
- Irregular feeding:
Long breaks in feeding increase stomach acid production, as horses are continuous eaters. Horses that are not fed regularly have a higher risk of gastric ulcers. - High carbohydrate diets:
Feeds with a high grain content and little roughage lead to increased stomach acid production and can irritate the stomach lining. - Lack of roughage:
Hay and grass promote saliva production, which acts as a buffer against stomach acid. A diet with little roughage therefore increases the risk of ulcers .
Stress
- Physical stress:
Intensive training and competitions can increase stomach acid production and impair the protective mechanisms of the gastric mucosa. - Psychological stress:
Changes in the environment, transport and social isolation are stress factors that can contribute to the development of stomach ulcers .
Medication, illnesses and other health problems:
- Concomitant diseases:
Conditions such as colic, infections and other inflammatory conditions can increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers . - Parasite infestation:
A severe infestation with stomach bugs can cause mechanical damage to the stomach lining and promote the development of ulcers. - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs:
Some medications can damage the mucosal barrier of the stomach and promote the development of ulcers.
Management practices:
- Stable keeping:
Horses that are mainly kept indoors have a higher risk of stomach ulcers compared to horses that are out on pasture all day. Stabling reduces feed intake times and increases stress.
The combination of these factors can lead to an imbalance between protective and damaging influences in the stomach and favour the development of gastric ulcers. Adapted feeding, stress-free husbandry and the responsible use of medication can significantly reduce the risk.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a gastric ulcer in horses requires a thorough examination by one of our vets. We start with a thorough history and physical examination of the horse. Symptoms are recorded and information on feeding practices, husbandry conditions and the horse's general health is requested in order to identify potential causes and risk factors.
The most reliable method for diagnosing gastric ulcers in horses is gastroscopy. In this procedure, a flexible endoscope is inserted into the stomach through the horse's nose or mouth. Gastroscopy allows a direct view of the gastric mucosa and the identification of lesions, ulcers or other abnormalities. The horse must have fasted for at least 12 hours for this examination so that the stomach is empty and the mucous membrane is clearly visible.
In addition to gastroscopy, blood tests and stool samples can be performed to check general health indicators and rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.
Treatment
The treatment of gastric ulcers in horses involves several steps to support the healing of the stomach lining and improve the animal's quality of life. Firstly, the horse should be housed in a stress-free environment, as stress is one of the main triggers of gastric ulcers. Regular and appropriate feeding is also crucial. Horses should be given frequent small meals consisting mainly of fibre-rich feed such as hay. The amount of grain and starchy feed should be reduced to minimise stomach acid production.
Medication also plays a central role in the treatment. Omeprazole is a widely used drug that inhibits the production of stomach acid and thus promotes the healing of ulcers. Other medications can also be used to protect the stomach lining and alleviate the symptoms.
A combination of medicinal treatment, adapted feeding and stress-free husbandry can effectively support the healing of stomach ulcers and sustainably improve the horse's well-being.
Management consequences
Observing the horse's behaviour and physical signs is essential. Changes in eating behaviour, weight loss or signs of discomfort may indicate that the ulcer has not fully healed or that a new ulcer is developing. In such cases, consultation with one of our vets is necessary in order to take further action.
After a gastric ulcer, it is important to reconsider the horse's feeding and management practices in the long term in order to avoid future problems. Our vets will of course advise you accordingly.